Staff from the county council's community heritage team will hold an interesting talk at Upholland Library on Monday 7 March about the contribution made by women and children, and how the war affected them.

Marianne Howell, community heritage manager, said: "The First World War made such huge differences to women's lives. Suddenly women became an active part of the workforce, rising to the challenge and making great sacrifices.

"The perception of women changed. Now British women weren't seen as only wives and mothers, but as a visible strength in public life, for the very first time. It was a time when women defied both cultural and social barriers and made some incredible achievements.

"Many women were employed for the first time, taking over jobs traditionally thought of as being suitable only for men.

"From transport to agriculture, munitions, and even politics, women stepped into the breach and became a part of the war machine, gaining their own rights and often an independent income.

"They supported those who were fighting and the war effort and it is only right that we commemorate this generation of truly inspiring women."

The talk, called We Can Do It! Women and the War, is free to attend but booking is essential as places are limited.